10 Questions with Marc Megna

Marc Megna is a Miami-based strength and conditioning coach. He's a former NFL football player and is certified by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Megna works with a wide variety of clients, from celebrities to professional athletes and novices. As a former professional athlete, Megna is an expert on proper training methods, working through injuries, and attaining competitive goals. After retiring from football, the Massachusetts native settled in Miami, where he began inspiring others with his demanding fitness regimens and, more importantly, the impressive results of notorious hard work. Megna trains clients from every walk of life and writes about fitness, exercises, and training tips for Muscle & Fitness, Inside Fitness, Fitness RX, Train Magazine, Dr. Oz, and Elitefts.com.

When did you first hear the name Concept2 or try one of our products?
My first intro to Concept2 was many years ago at a corporate wellness facility. I gave the indoor rower a try and thought it wasn’t for me.

Do you remember your first workout on a Concept2 machine? What did you think at first? Do you remember how you felt afterwards?
I had to do a 2K test prior to taking a certification. I had to pull a sub-7 minute time. I did it, barely. I was angry because I was so bad. Then it hit me. Why did I think I would be good at something I had never done? I ordered a Concept2 RowErg the next day.

Which Concept2 products do you use?
Indoor rower, SkiErg, and I just ordered a BikeErg.

Why have you chosen those products?
I love the products because the computer screen always tells you the truth. It never lies. Also, they’ve become active meditation for me. I’m obsessed with finding an optimal stroke with great precision. How do they enhance your training? Stroke discipline (spm) and split accuracy help me stay on course.

How do you incorporate Concept2 equipment into your programming?
I usually row 3-4 days a week and SkiErg 1-2 days a week, as well as do strength work 3-4 days each week.

What types of athletes do you primarily work with?
I’ve worked with athletes of all kinds. NFL athletes, youth athletes, career runners, and everyday people. I thoroughly enjoy working with all types of people.

What’s your favorite/go-to workout?
6x500m with 1 minute rest or 4 x 2000m (spm 22-24-26-28 on each 2000m).

We’d love to hear a quick story that involves Concept2 equipment–a motivational, funny, or learning moment. 
Last year I did my first online rowing challenge. The final challenge of the contest consisted of a 2000m row plus 21,097m (half-marathon). Prior to that challenge, my longest session was only 10,000 meters. I hit it hard and was very pleased with my times. However, there was one minor error. I was supposed to subtract the 2000m from the 21,097 and do the remaining 19,097. I did the entire half distance of 21,097. It crushed my soul, LOL. Because I waited until the last minute to record the challenge, I had to repeat the challenge or get disqualified. I hit a 2K PR with 6:25, but had to drag my body through the rest, LOL.

What one piece of advice would you give to someone hopping on Concept2 equipment for the first time?
Put in the work. Give it time. It took me one year to find a smooth stroke.

What trainers or athletes do you look up to?
Rob Carson, Lizzy Smith, and Justin Farina.

What or who inspires you to keep going?
The team at Anatomy. The are all special people who make me want to work harder and be better.

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